Passion. Experience. Diligence.
Who We Are
The Genessee Group was created on a core set of values that drives our culture. We are passionate about our endeavors, disciplined in our process, and patient in value-creation. Above all, we appreciate the incredible effort and fortitude required to found a successful business. We honor this accomplishment by fostering a world-class culture focused on promoting continuous improvement, enabling employees to unlock their full potential, making a positive difference, and enjoying the process as we do so.
Our team consists of investment and operational professionals with significant experience with mergers and acquisitions, corporate strategy and operations. The team is supported by an extensive network of industry executives, consultants, attorneys, accountants, and other subject matter experts as needed.
Andrea DePalma
Associate, M&A
As a top of the class student, Andrea graduated with a bachelor's degree in Economics and Business from one of the leading universities in Italy. Throughout his bachelor's, he participated in a structured partnership with Utrecht University, in The Netherlands, where he spent one year perfecting his economics studies and participated in a research study about the legal framework for startups. Andrea continued his education by obtaining a master's degree in finance from The Ohio State University. During this time, he was elected to the leadership council and represented the program during business school meetings. He completed his master's with a consulting project for Cardinal Health.
Education
OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY Master’s, Finance, 2020
LUISS UNIVERSITY BS, Economics & Business, 2018
Jeffrey Bartels
Principal, M&A
As Managing Director of The Genessee Group, Jeff has assisted middle market companies through transitional and transactional phases of their business cycle while providing strategic financial advisory services. Prior to establishing The Genessee Group, Jeff was active in the private equity industry, having joined Treehouse Capital Management in 2017 where he was quickly elevated to Deputy Director to the CFO. At Treehouse, Jeff was responsible for strategic finance initiatives, capital markets development, modeling, diligence, cash flow management and forecasting. Jeff shepherded the successful go-public RTO transaction efforts of portfolio company MedMen Enterprises at a $1.65B valuation in 2018, which was the largest go-public valuation in the space at that time.
Jeff has provided the gamut of business consultancy services for myriad entities – from Real Estate Development to family offices, leveraging his diverse knowledge base to further the strategic and financial goals of those he represents.
Prior to Treehouse, Jeff’s focus was in Biotechnology and R&D where he honed his analytical quiver. He deploys these systematic approaches combined with his unique ability to connect with stakeholders at all levels to significantly increase value in every transaction.
Education
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
MBA, 2014
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
BS, Biochemistry & Cell Biology, 2009
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE
Master’s Certificate, Integrated Marketing, 2012
Ryan Henbest
Director of Design
Designer and leader with over a decade of experience in the creative industry building brands. Ryan thinks holistically and immerses himself in all disciplines of design—including brand systems, identity, campaigns, environmental design, and visual interfaces. Clients include: Nike, Converse, Google, Facebook, and Mountain Hardwear.
Seeing every touchpoint as an opportunity to create a branded experience, Ryan looks to change perceptions using powerful design systems that engage with customers on a personal level. Through this approach he utilizes craft skills to meet complex business needs, transforming intangible ideas into a tangible product.
Education
THE ART INSTITUTE Master’s Certificate, Integrated Marketing, 2016
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SANTA CRUZ BFA, Photography, 2002